Police warn rising robberies

JAKARTA: City Police Chief Insp. Gen. Makbul Padmanagara on Wednesday called on the public to keep vigilant to the rising trend of robbery which targetting bank customers during the Ramadhan fasting month.

Makbul said many holidaymakers would take much money from banks in preparation for the Idul Fitri and Christmas celebrations which made them easy prey for criminals to rob.

Idul Fitri holiday, which marks the end of Ramadhan fasting month, is expected to fall on Nov. 25.

"Please ask the police help to escort while taking the money. The escort is free of charge," he asserted.

He said the police would also beef up security in public places.

Besides robbery, the police also warned Jakartans about the rising burglaries at houses which left vacant by the owners. Many revellers in the city, traditionally, will return to their home village to celebrate Idul Fitri holiday. --JP.